Phone firm’s mast bid

A PHONE company wants to site a 20m mast in Tytherington to ensure train users have better reception.

EE has submitted an application to Cheshire East Council to put the monopole, which would have two antennas and two dishes, on a footpath at Beech Lane.

It says the site has been chosen as it is near a pylon and existing phone equipment so would not spoil the existing character of the area.

The mast would be used for 4G and in time 5G services, particularly by rail passengers as the West Coast Mainline passes through this part of Macclesfield.

But Cadent Gas has written to the council with a ‘holding objection’ while its engineers assess the application as it has equipment in the area.

EE says it has looked at other possible sites in the area - such as Beech Hall School and Riverside Park - but has found them unsuitable for various reasons.

A report by consultants Harlequin Group, on EE’s behalf, said: “(The mast) is predominantly to address a gap in EE coverage and provide improved coverage for travellers on the adjacent section of railway line.

“In addition, enhanced coverage will be provided to

EE’s network in this area including residents, visitors, and businesses.

“Without this installation, there would be an adverse impact on those that rely on this vital service and coverage from an economic, social and environmental perspective.

“Not least the emergency services who will also be reliant on the coverage the proposed installation will provide.”

Comments on the application as part of a public consultation can be made until April 27.

The council aims to make a decision by mid-May.